Monte Kwinter: Former Liberal Toronto MPP Dead at 92
The political community mourns the loss of Monte Kwinter, the former Toronto Liberal MPP, who held the distinction of being the oldest politician in the Ontario Legislature. According to an online death notice, Monte Kwinter has passed away. The veteran politician, known for his dedication and service, represented the North York riding of Wilson Heights, which was later renamed York Centre, from May 1985 to June 2018.
Condolences have been pouring in on social media, with many remembering him as a supportive and beloved figure. Michael Levitt, President, and CEO of Friends of Simon Wiesenthal Center, and former Liberal MP for York Centre, expressed his sadness and paid tribute to Kwinter’s legacy of service. Levitt shared on Twitter, “Saddened to learn that Monte Kwinter has died. His legacy of service will long endure. On a personal note, Monte was the first person to support me when I knocked on his door in 2013 while seeking the York Centre nomination. I will never forget that. May his memory be a blessing.”
Ya’ara Saks, the current Liberal MP for York Centre and parliamentary secretary to the Minister of Families, Children, and Social Development, also offered her heartfelt condolences. She described Kwinter as a “beloved community leader” whose impact on York Centre residents would always be cherished. Saks tweeted, “Saddened to learn of the passing of Monte Kwinter. His legacy of service in #YorkCentre will remain with all of us. He was a beloved community leader whose smile and ‘wave’ were a warm welcome to all who met and worked with him.”
Ontario’s Minister of Labour, Monte McNaughton, expressed his deep sorrow upon hearing the news of Monte Kwinter’s passing. McNaughton acknowledged Kwinter’s lifetime of service to others, recounting their initial meeting when they both served as Members of Provincial Parliament (MPPs).
Roman Baber, who succeeded Kwinter as MPP for York Centre when the Progressive Conservatives swept to power, also offered his condolences. He described Kwinter as a remarkable Canadian who had served the great riding of York Centre with distinction for 32 years, always putting his constituents first.
Monte Kwinter’s political journey was marked by notable achievements and dedication to his constituents. He served as Minister of Consumer and Commercial Relations and Minister of Financial Institutions in premier David Peterson’s government and later as Minister of Industry, Trade, and Technology.
Despite facing various political challenges, Kwinter successfully retained his seat at Queen’s Park through different political administrations, including the Progressive Conservatives under Mike Harris.
When the Liberals returned to power in 2003, premier Dalton McGuinty appointed Kwinter as Minister of Community Safety and Correctional Services and Solicitor General. He also served as Chair of the Ontario Investment Trade Advisory Council.
Throughout his career, Kwinter made significant contributions to public life, working alongside three Liberal premiers. In July 2017, he announced that he would not seek re-election due to reported health issues. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve his community and the privilege of working with different premiers.
Before entering politics, Monte Kwinter pursued an education in diverse fields, attending esteemed institutions such as the Ontario College of Art, Syracuse University, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, the Institute of Contemporary Art in Boston, and the Université de Montréal. Prior to his political career, he worked as a real estate agent.
Monte Kwinter’s passing is a profound loss felt by his family, friends, colleagues, and the entire Canadian political community. His memory will continue to be cherished, and his legacy of service and dedication will undoubtedly inspire future generations of public servants. As we remember his remarkable contributions to Ontario politics, we also extend our sympathies to his loved ones during this difficult time. Monte Kwinter will be remembered for his unwavering commitment to public service and the impact he had on the lives of the people he served and represented.